Description

Following on from the popular The Art of… strand, The Art of France reads the nation’s history and character in its sculptures, paintings, and palaces. From the art of absolute power in the 18th century through to the modern philosophies bound up in impressionism, art and history are merged to enlightening effect. Presenter Andrew Graham-Dixon unlocks the connection between the unification of France and the art of absolute power (reflected in the Palace of Versailles) and the cult of personality and the French Revolution. The series concludes with Impressionism, an artistic movement that emerged at a time when France was struggling to decide which way to turn.